Monday, October 22, 2018

It’s very rare for me to become so engrossed in a book, that I can’t put it down. This book was one that I keep thinking about even weeks after I finished it.

Tina Hutchence writes about her brother in such a loving, caring, older sister kind of way.

I enjoyed reading about his childhood in Sydney, Hong Kong and Los Angeles and his family dynamics.

His adventures with Helena Christensen and the time they spent at his French villa, were a highlight for me and it seemed that this period of Michael’s life was when he was most happiest.

Reading about his relationship with Paula Yates, was difficult. I know that it’s only Tina’s side of the story but it felt claustrophobic. Michael’s life in London seemed like a cage he couldn’t get out from...constantly harassed by the tabloids and he couldn’t just pack up and head to other country because Paula to stay in the U.K., so she could be with her daughters with Sir Bob Geldof. Michael didn’t want to be away from his daughter, Tigerlily. A difficult situation that was compounded due to Michael’s brain injury acquired from an assault in Copenhagen, Denmark before his relationship with Paula.

Tuesday, May 29, 2018

The first dedicated book with creative ideas and resources for bullet journallers, scrapbookers, card makers and other creative compulsive planners and decorators.

Bullet journals are the ultimate asset for people who want to be mindful and productive at the same time. They’re the new obsession for creative organisers and planners everywhere, helping millions to de-stress by allowing them to list commitments, goals and interests in a fun and imaginative way. But what if the journaller is lacking inspiration, isn’t a talented artist or lacks confidence when it comes to unleashing their inner creative?

This is where Sami Sparrow comes in with a handy flip-through book of ideas: icons, banners, borders, wreaths, illustrations and lettering. As well as this traceable art, there are bonus how-to steps and stencils, making Sami Sparrow’s Bullet Compendium of Decorative Designs the essential practical resource for organising your life in an imaginative way that reflects the sentiment, mood and character of the moment.

RRP $19.95. In stores and online now.

With thanks to Harper Collins Australia, I have three copies of Sami Sparrow’s Bullet Compendium of Decorative Designs to giveaway.

Tuesday, March 6, 2018

Sally Hepworth’s latest novel has just been released and it doesn’t disappoint. It sucks you in and you become completely engrossed in what goes on behind closed doors, especially with the mysterious woman who moves into the street.

I asked Sally a few questions about The Family Next Door.

I think we all have a curious nature when it comes to our neighbours. Was that curiosity your inspiration for this book?

Yes! I’m the local Mrs Mangel of my neighbourhood. I always have my nose in other people’s business and if they are not up to anything interesting, I’m imagining that they are. So it was a natural progression that I’d write a book about neighbours who are a little too interested in their neighbours.

Are any of the characters based on your actual neighbours?

Let’s just say that my neighbours were a little nervous when they found out the title of the book I was writing! But no, none of my characters are based on them. I find it much easier to write about made up people, because then I can make them do really bad things and I don’t have to worry about their feelings!

What are you currently working on?

Currently I’m working on promoting The Family Next Door. But as soon as I wrap that up, I’ll be back to editing my 2019 book, The Mother In Law.